Hillsville gas leak sends 50+ people to hospitals

HILLSVILLE — More than 50 people at a Hillsville produce packing plant were transported to hospitals Tuesday afternoon due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carroll County Sheriff J.B. Gardener said at least three people were airlifted to Duke University Hospital for additional treatment.

Twin County 911 dispatch received the call of a possible carbon monoxide poisoning at Virginia Produce around 1 p.m. Tuesday. According to Gardner, “several” people were outside the building, complaining of headaches, dizziness, nausea and difficulty breathing when rescue units arrived on the scene.